Five young musicians, hailing from the suburbans of Stockholm, had played together for some time when their demo ‘Death Row’ took the eye of In Flames guitarist Jesper Strömblad. Talking about having luck… Jesper was so impressed that he invited Degradead to come over to Gothenburg and record their debut album in the new studio of the In Flames guys (called IF studios). What an adventure!

Jesper was right; ‘Til Death Do Us Apart’ sure has some good qualities. Degradead is not (yet) a master in having an identity of their own, but the album is just amazing to listen to, and that’s what it is all about, isn’t it? ‘Genetic Waste’ as opener happens to be a stunner: melodic death metal with low-tuned guitars reminding me a bit of Amon Amarth. But singer Mikael Sehlin has a slightly higher voice and more scream-like. The brief acoustic guitar part, followed by the band cutting loose again is done great. Another favourite is ‘Pass Away’, medium tempo with thoughtful guitar intro. They use a lot of clean backing vocals in the songs and in ‘Resemblance Of The Past’ we have a bit keys. For the rest this album is featured by the excellent guitar skills of Anders and David. It is funny that guitarist Anders Nyström has exactly the same name as Blakkheim, guitar player of Katatonia. Every song is executed with tons of energy and pace is generally quite high. ‘The Fallen’ needs another mention. It has an acoustic intro that reminds me of Metallica and rhythm-wise this song has lots in common with ‘Victorious March’ of Amon Amarth. Since this is one of the most inciting bands of the moment, I am fond of this song as well. The band occludes with a surprise: an acoustic instrumental track. Beautiful! This is a strong debut that will appeal to fans of Children Of Bodom, In Flames and Dark Tranquillity.

Genetic Waste (3:49)Take Control (3:36)Pass Away (3:33)Burned (4:39)Relations To The Humanity (4:06)The Bloodchain (3:32)The Fallen (4:13)Day Of The Dead (3:36)Resemblance Of The Past (4:38)Reborn (3:01)Til Death Do Us Apart (2:15)